WHILE the cyclists passed by in a matter of minutes in a blur of wheels and lycra, Celebrate Woking’s West Byfleet LI:VE event ensured people were kept entertained for the whole weekend.

Thousands took advantage of the fairground rides, food stalls, beer tent and big screen on the recreation ground in West Byfleet.

On Friday (July 27), people picnicked and watched the opening ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games, and on Saturday they were back to watch the ultimately disappointing conclusion of the men’s road race.

But Sunday saw crowds cheering on Lizzie Armitstead as she picked up Team GB’s maiden silver medal.

Also adding to the Olympic excitement was one of Woking’s torchbearers, Simon Hawkings, and the World Masters Champion hurdler, Virginia Mitchell.

Mr Hawkings said: “I estimate that around 1,000 people held and had their photos taken with our torch.

“It was the most fantastic day and everyone involved in the event did an amazing job from start to finish.”

Councillor Tony Branagan, Woking Borough Council’s lead member for 2012, said: “I’d like to say a big thank you to everyone who came down to West Byfleet Recreation Ground over the weekend and made it such an unforgettable experience.”

Angela Williams, 63, who has lived in West Byfleet for 20 years, was one of the Surrey language ambassadors volunteering on the day.

Speaking on Saturday, she said: “It is wonderful. We had an enormous party on the recreation ground last night, with a big screen, and it was a fantastic atmosphere. It really brings the villages together.”

The Celebrate Woking event was organised together with the West Byfleet Business Association and other community groups.